# Essential Insights I Wish I'd Shared with My Younger Self
Written on
Chapter 1: A Journey Through My Twenties
Reflecting on the question of what advice I would give my 20-year-old self, I find my response to be quite straightforward.
Before delving into that, let’s set the scene. I spent my twenties in London, primarily in the southern districts such as Putney, Richmond, and Southfields, not far from the iconic Wimbledon All England Lawn Tennis Club, where I once worked as a ball girl during the qualifying rounds. During this time, I encountered Paul Annacone, who later became a coach for tennis legends like Pete Sampras and Roger Federer.
Having been starstruck by celebrities since my teenage years, I developed a talent for recognizing actors around the city. There was one memorable incident when I mistook Simon Cadell for a client while I was selling fax machines. One morning, while I was canvassing on Wardour Street, he walked toward me, and as I tried to recall his name, I suddenly realized who he was and hurried past him—surely he breathed a sigh of relief!
Chapter 2: Parisian Influences
Before my London chapter, I spent a year in Paris at the Sorbonne. I resided on Rue de Condé, where I took care of three children in exchange for accommodation. Their mother worked as a journalist for Madame Figaro, and the research for my dissertation on Coca-Cola’s centenary contributed to an article she later published in Paris Match.
It was during this year that my writing journey began. I walked the same streets as the famed lost generation writers who frequented Shakespeare & Co. The experience inspired me, particularly with the introduction of Stypen fountain pens and international ink cartridges, as well as the Séyès ruled notebooks that became repositories for my thoughts.
Chapter 3: A Brush with Fame
At the time, "Ghostbusters" had just premiered. I watched it in English with French subtitles alongside the children I was caring for. I had heard that Bill Murray was in town, having stayed in Paris after filming "The Razor’s Edge." After several failed attempts to find him, I serendipitously spotted him while waiting outside a university building. Armed with my autograph book, I approached him, and he signed it with a note that read: "Merry Xmas," despite it being Easter.
I was so caught up in my desire to interview him that I later approached him again near Notre Dame. Although he didn’t agree to a formal interview, our brief exchange provided enough material for me to write about, which I transcribed on Marie-Jo’s typewriter, preserving it on delicate yellow paper.
Chapter 4: The Weight of Memories
Despite my efforts to document my experiences, many memories remain elusive. As Allison Fallon notes, “It’s crazy to think how much we try to remember that we cannot remember.” The mundane aspects of our lives often fade into obscurity. Can you recall what you were doing last Thursday? Or even a year ago today? It’s astonishing how much slips through our fingers.
The Key Insight
The most important piece of advice I would give my 20-year-old self—and to anyone—is to write things down! This practice leads to a wealth of insights, from artistic expression to personal goal-setting. Had I documented my thoughts, I could have created a rich tapestry of stories and characters drawn from my life experiences.
It took me far too long to recognize that these life narratives could be repurposed as inspiration. I often wish I had embraced the concept of a "Second Brain" sooner, or discovered Zettelkasten techniques earlier in my journey.
The Power of Written Words
Writing serves as a reminder of significant moments in our lives—those fleeting joys and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. “What we write down is what we remember,” Fallon emphasizes. It creates a sort of time capsule, reconnecting us with the best parts of ourselves and ensuring we stay on our intended paths.
During challenging times, writing became my refuge. When I felt isolated, my notebook offered a safe space for my thoughts. Through writing, I could articulate my dreams, and remarkably, many of those dreams materialized.
The Shift in Perspective
The rise of Personal Knowledge Management (PKM) transformed my approach to writing. The first time I watched Ali Abdaal discuss the "Second Brain" concept was a turning point for me. While Niklas Luhmann used index cards for this purpose, Obsidian introduced me to linking ideas in a way that resonated deeply. Although I explored Notion and Ev Chapman’s methods, I ultimately found my rhythm with Obsidian.
In 2022, while searching for a new productivity app, I discovered Twos, which surpassed my expectations. It has become a home for my Daily Log, notes about significant events, and encounters, effectively archiving my life’s journey.
Cherished Memories
When my father passed away, I wrote down small memories—nothing monumental, but little nuggets of our shared experiences. Details like his favorite chocolate, his routine of checking the time when asked if he wanted a drink, and our shared love for sci-fi films were all preserved through my writing.
Reliving the Past
Writing is akin to capturing snapshots of our lives. Revisiting my old daily logs allows me to relive those moments, bringing back vivid details and prompting other memories. These writings illustrate my journey, showcasing how far I've come and the challenges I've overcome.
Writing can offer the same transformative experience for you. Don’t wait—begin documenting your life today!
Happy Twosday! 😊
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Chapter 5: Reflecting on My 20-Year-Old Self
In this section, we explore the lessons learned from past experiences and the value of self-reflection.
The first video, titled "7 THINGS I WOULD TELL MY 20-YEAR-OLD SELF," shares insights that resonate with the theme of this reflection.
The second video, "Advice To My 20 Year Old Self...," further emphasizes the importance of documenting life’s experiences and the wisdom gained along the way.